What links damson beer, toast, and dancing? The annual Wassail Day in Cumbria’s Lyth Valley. This year’s event will take place on Saturday 14th January.

Crook Morris, with help from The Kendal Revellers, will be wassailing a damson tree in the orchard at The Row in Lyth Valley.

This slightly odd tradition consists of making as much noise as possible while approaching the tree, in order to scare away the evil spirits. Damson beer is then poured into the roots of the tree and toast is hung from the branches.

Whilst standing around the tree, wassail songs and traditional carols are sung, led by The Kendal Revellers. This includes a song about the Wren who, despite his size, is the King of the Birds.

Toast hangs from the damson tree on Wassail Day

There will be Morris Dancing and more singing at The Row, before the Wassail Day continues at The Hare and Hounds pub at Bowland Bridge.

The rest of the afternoon, and the evening, will be spent singing, dancing, eating and drinking. The dancing will be provided by local Appalachian and clog sides, and a mummers play (a traditional play with Father Christmas, St George, the Dragon and many more interesting characters) will provide some added entertainment.

Everyone is welcome along to the wassail, simply meet at The Row at 1.15pm, and don’t forget to bring along something to make some noise with. The event takes place in all weathers. Last year there was snow, but who knows what this year will bring, so wrap up warm.